2026 Migrants and Japanese Society
2026 Migrants and Japanese Society supports interdisciplinary teams researching challenges facing foreign residents in Japan and developing practical systems to help welcome foreign talent into society.
Funder: Toyota Foundation
Due Dates: October 14, 2026, 17:00 JST (Optional pre-consultation) | November 14, 2026, 23:59 JST (Proposal)
Funding Amounts: Approximately JPY 5–10 million per project for two or three years; JPY 55 million total
Summary: Supports interdisciplinary teams researching challenges affecting foreign residents in Japan and developing practical systems or measures to address them.
Key Information: Individual-only applications are ineligible; applications must be in Japanese, with Japanese-speaking project and contact representatives.
Description
The Toyota Foundation’s Special Subject program supports research and practice that contribute to comprehensive systems for welcoming foreign talent into Japanese society. Established in 2019, it aims to understand the changes associated with increasing migration, identify factors behind challenges facing foreign residents, and develop sustainable responses. It also encourages platforms connecting frontline support workers, researchers, government, residents, migrants, economic organizations, and companies.
Projects may address one or more of five themes:
- Environments that maximize foreign talent’s skills and potential.
- Gaps in foreign residents’ access to information.
- Personnel and existing resources for care and support systems.
- Attracting highly skilled human resources from abroad.
- Lessons from Japanese companies’ overseas business experience.
The program primarily supports combined research and implementation. Research-focused proposals are also accepted under the final two themes, although practical activities receive priority.
